Cormac McCarthy (1933-2023) was an American novelist and playwright renowned for his distinct and powerful literary style. Born on July 20, 1933, in Providence, Rhode Island, he would become one of the most celebrated and enigmatic voices in 20th- and 21st-century literature. McCarthy’s works delve deep into the darkest corners of the human psyche, exploring themes of violence, nature, morality, and the relentless pursuit of truth.

Raised primarily in Knoxville, Tennessee, McCarthy developed a deep fascination with the rural landscapes and rich history of the American South, which would later provide the backdrop for many of his novels. After high school, McCarthy attended the University of Tennessee, where he studied liberal arts and creative writing. His love for literature grew during this time, and he began to explore various genres and styles, eventually finding the voice that would make his name.

In 1965, McCarthy published his first novel, The Orchard Keeper. Set in the rugged mountains of East Tennessee, the book introduced readers to McCarthy’s distinctive blend of lyricism and stark realism. The Orchard Keeper tells the story of a young boy, John Wesley Rattner, who becomes entangled with a group of eccentric characters in a world suffused with violence and decay.